BIOGRAPHY OF LATE MR. RICHARD EBELEBE UKONU

Late Mr. Richard Ebelebe Ukonu was born 7th October, 1944 to Late Mr. Ukonu Ebelebe of Eziama Ogberuru in Orlu LGA, Imo State. He was the last child from a family of four (4). In his own words, He was a bright child, always available to help. His native name “Osoenwudeaku” defined how he pursued his life ambitions. He was baptized in the Catholic faith and was an ardent believer of the Catholic doctrine and teachings till death.

He attended St. Patrick School, Ogberuru, where he completed his basic education. After the completion of his basic education, he left his hometown to join his brother in Aba to learn trade. This move was necessitated by his desire to help elevate the family standard of living and offer support where he could. Due to his determination to carve a niche for himself and family, he performed different tasks at different locations. He sojourned from Aba to Okigwe and from Okigwe to Umuahia. However, while at Umuahia the war broke, thus forcing him to return to his hometown.

He met and married his lovely wife, Mrs. Cecilia Ukonu( nee Okoro) and they both left for Aba after the war where they both established their businesses. He was a dotting husband. To his wife, he was her backbone and super fan; he was ever present to give her all the support she ever needed. He created an environment where both he and  his wife were shareholders in all their finances and investments.

His union with his wife was blessed with ten(10) children; nine(9) girls and one(1) boy. To his children, he was their HERO. Against all odds in cultural beliefs in birthing mainly girls, he loved all his girls unconditionally. He was the PERFECT father who knows when to reward and when to chastise. Unlike the prevalent nature of fathers, he tries not to force his decision on his children. He believed that the moral upbringing he gave his children will influence their decision and as such he had complete trust and faith in all his children.

He was ever available to render selfless services to his extended family. He played a huge role in ensuring that most of them left the shores of their hometown for greener pastures.

He celebrates even the tiniest success as though it was a legendary achievement.

He was an active member of Catholic Men Association (CMO) Aba branch. He was well respected as an elder both in his hometown, business environment and residential environment and he never failed to lead by example, his actions were a lot louder than his words; and he spoke many words of wisdom.

He was a man of the people, the peace maker, the motivator, the guidance counselor, the spiritual adviser and more.  I am sure if he had to write his own plaque, it will read like below;

“If you remember anything of me, after I leave this world, remember that I loved even when it was foolish; that I cared even when it was unwanted and unappreciated. When my body is gone, remember my HEART”. 

That was Richard Ukonu’s lifestyle.

He will surely be missed because HE LOVED AND HE WAS LOVED